A 19-year-old Anna University student's rapist, Gnanasekharan, has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The court also imposed a fine of ₹90,000 and mandated a minimum 30-year prison term.
New Delhi: A Chennai women's court has sentenced Gnanasekharan, a biryani vendor, to life imprisonment for the sexual assault that occurred on the Anna University campus. He was also fined ₹90,000. The court stipulated that he must serve a minimum of 30 years in prison. This verdict exemplifies the judiciary's firm stance against serious crimes.
Details of the Case
The incident took place in December 2024, when Gnanasekharan sexually assaulted a 19-year-old female student on the university campus. The victim was with a male friend when the accused assaulted the young man and subsequently attacked the student. The accused also filmed the incident and attempted to use it for blackmail. He was arrested immediately after the incident.
Court Verdict and Sentence
The Chennai women's court found the accused guilty on all 11 charges, including sexual assault, rape, threats, and kidnapping. Judge M. Rajalakshmi stated that even the minimum sentence is inadequate for such heinous crimes. Therefore, the accused was sentenced to a minimum of 30 years imprisonment and fined ₹90,000.
Role of Witnesses and Police
Approximately 29 witnesses testified in court. The police submitted a 100-page charge sheet, including evidence from the scene, which played a crucial role in the court's decision. The clear testimony of the witnesses and b evidence ensured the accused's conviction.
Accused's Plea and Court's Response
In court, the accused pleaded for leniency, citing the need to care for his elderly mother and eight-year-old daughter. However, the court stated that family responsibilities cannot be prioritized in such crimes. Considering the gravity of the offense, a strict sentence was imposed.
Special Investigation Team's Investigation
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) composed solely of women investigated the case. The SIT completed its investigation on February 24th and submitted the charge sheet to the court. The case was transferred to the women's court on March 7th. The court also ordered the government to provide interim support of ₹25 lakh for the victim's safety.
